Summary of July 21 Board of Directors meeting
The BPRD board of directors approved a design concept for a new neighborhood park at the July 21 meeting. A video recording is available.
Coulter Grove Park Preferred Concept Design
The board of directors approved the preferred concept design for Coulter Grove Park, a new 3.17-acre neighborhood park planned for southwest Bend. The park site was acquired to help meet district goals of providing park access within a half mile of most residents and will serve an area currently identified as underserved by neighborhood parks.
The proposed design was developed through a public outreach process that included multiple open houses, surveys and neighborhood engagement efforts. Features include a nature-inspired playground, walking paths, picnic areas, open lawn space, exercise stations, and a potential half-court basketball court. A seasonal restroom and park shelter are also included as bid alternates.
The district has budgeted $2 million in system development charge funding for design and construction.
Bend Whitewater Park Maintenance Project Update
During the work session, staff provided an update on the long-term maintenance project for Bend Whitewater Park. The project was added to the district’s Capital Improvement Plan after assessments identified erosion, maintenance challenges, infrastructure needs, and opportunities to improve safety and ecological conditions within the park.
Engineering and environmental studies have been underway since 2024, including underwater inspections, hydraulic analyses, and surveys of the park’s channels and infrastructure. The project aims to adapt the park to changing river conditions, improve maintenance access, reduce safety risks, enhance accessibility, and maintain recreational and environmental benefits.
Current plans call for conceptual design work through 2027, followed by permitting and final design through 2029, with construction anticipated between summer 2029 and spring 2030. The district’s current capital plan allocates $15.3 million for the project. No board action is requested at this time.
City of Bend and BPRD Shared Framework for Community Vitality
The board discussed a proposed framework developed jointly by the City of Bend and BPRD to address affordable housing, recreation access, environmental stewardship, transportation connections, and overall community vitality. The framework grew out of conversations between city and district leaders about how both agencies can work together on community challenges while continuing to fulfill their respective missions.
The document identifies opportunities for coordinated planning, environmental stewardship, transportation improvements, efficient development processes, and innovative funding approaches. The framework also emphasizes protecting the district’s financial sustainability while exploring tools such as grants, revenue-sharing opportunities, and other funding mechanisms that could support shared goals.
Board members reviewed the framework and provided feedback to staff. The topic will be scheduled for a business session resolution at an upcoming meeting.
Staff introduction
Joel Lee introduced Jordan Lehtola, a new full-time park steward following two summers as a seasonal steward.
The Aug. 4 board meeting is canceled; therefore, the next meeting is Aug. 18.
